The Sacrament of Eucharist

irst Eucharist is received in second grade along with the sacrament of Confirmation (and Baptism, if needed). This is the last of the three “Sacraments of Christian Initiation” and completes the person’s welcoming into the Catholic Faith.

Adults or the parent(s) of children past second grade who have not received First Eucharist should contact the office at Saint Andrew Catholic Church, to arrange for this sacrament.

For questions regarding communion to the homebound, please contact the office at Saint Andrew Catholic Church.

Eucharist FAQs

What is the Eucharist?

Catholics believe the Eucharist truly is the body and blood of Christ under the appearance of bread and wine. We refer to this as the “Real Presence” of Christ. This transformation or “transubstantiation” is accomplished by the priest through the power of the Holy Spirit. We do this in obedience to the command of Jesus at the Last Supper to “Do this in remembrance of me.”

Can a non-Catholic receive the Eucharist?

Sharing the Eucharist with those of other faiths is not permitted except under very special circumstances because most other faith traditions do not believe what Catholics believe about the Eucharist.

Do I or my child have to receive from the cup?

Catholics believe that the wine presented at Mass is changed by the power of the Holy Spirit into the Blood of Christ. Receiving the Precious Blood helps us recall the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Receiving from the cup makes our reception of the Eucharist more complete.

Won’t I get sick if I receive from the cup that others have used?

Over centuries, there has been no documented evidence that sharing a common communion cup spreads disease. It is considered perfectly safe. After each person sips from the cup, the rim of the cup is wiped off and the cup is turned so the next person is drinking from a clean place.